Red Pepper Jam Recipe
Category: Jams and Preserves
Servings: 1 jar (adjust based on your desired portion size)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red bell peppers | 1 kg |
| Sugar | 200 g |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Dried chili peppers | 2 |
| Fine salt | 5 g |
Instructions:
To make this vibrant and flavorful red pepper jam, follow these simple steps:
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Prepare the Peppers: Start by thoroughly washing the red bell peppers. Remove the tops (calotte) along with the stems. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise, removing all the inner membranes and seeds. Proceed to cut the peppers into medium-sized chunks. Repeat this process for all the peppers and set them aside.
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Garlic Preparation: Peel the garlic cloves and slice them into very thin rounds to release their full flavor.
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Cook the Jam Mixture: In a large saucepan, add the prepared red peppers, garlic, dried chili peppers (broken into pieces), and sugar. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
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Pass the Mixture: Once the ingredients are well mixed, transfer them to a food mill or a vegetable strainer set over a bowl. Turn the handle to strain the mixture, removing any solid bits and leaving behind a smooth, flavorful jam base. If the mixture is too thick or not warm enough, you can reheat it slightly in the microwave or over low heat on the stove.
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Sterilize the Jars: Sterilize your glass jars by either boiling them in water or placing them in the oven for about 10 minutes. Once they are sterilized, pour the hot red pepper jam into the jars, leaving a small space at the top.
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Seal and Cool: Immediately seal the jars by tightly screwing on the lids. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature for at least one night. This ensures that the jam will set properly.
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Check for Seal: Before consuming, verify that the jars have sealed correctly by pressing the center of the lid. If you hear a “click” sound when you press it, the seal has formed, and your jam is safe to store. If the lid pops back up, it hasn’t sealed properly, and you may need to refrigerate it and consume it sooner.
For more tips and detailed information on home preserves, it’s always a good idea to refer to official guidelines such as those provided by the Ministry of Health.
Enjoy your homemade red pepper jam as a sweet and spicy spread on toast, as a glaze for meats, or as a delightful addition to cheese platters!
